Moab Half Marathon, Inc. announced last week that it contributed $33,500 to local non-profits in 2012. Moab Half Marathon (MHM) operates several races in Moab and Grand County each year.

Community groups that received donations include Community Rebuilds, Canyonlands Community Recycling, Youth Garden Project, Moab Regional Hospital, Seekhaven, Moab Teen Center, Canyonlands Rodeo Committee, the Grand County High School boys and girls soccer teams, cross country team and track team, and the GCHS National Honor Society. Most contributions were given by the organization, while some were directly donated by runners through MHM’s Charity Registration, according to a news release from Moab Half Marathon.

“We are grateful for all of the amazing organizations willing to help out in whatever way they can and, in turn, we want to give back to them to show our appreciation,” said Moab Half Marathon Race Director Ranna Bieschke. “Our volunteers generate tons of positive feedback on how smoothly our events run, and there’s no way it would happen without the individuals and groups involved in the races.”

Support also went to the Moab chapter of Girls on the Run, a national organization designed to inspire third- through sixth-grade girls to be joyful, healthy and confident through running. MHM staff members donated time and supplies to coach program participants. “The program has benefited over 100 girls in its 3 year history here in Moab,” commented Bieschke, who helped coach 5th-6th grade participants.

Moab Half Marathon events in 2013 will include the Canyonlands Half Marathon and Five Mile Run on March 16, the Thelma & Louise Half Marathon on June 1, The Other Half on Oct. 20, and the Winter Sun 10k on Dec. 7.

For more information about Moab Half Marathon, Inc. visit www.moabhalfmarathon.com.

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